Reading texts from Child's phone from somewhere other than the phone

[aconcernedparent]

Is there a way I can read texts my child sends & receives without having her phone (ie from my computer or table)?  iMessage is not the solution because not everyone who texts her has an iPhone, not to mention iMessage uses a lot of data (see many scathing posts about this by other members).  Technically, it is my phone.  I paid for the device, and I pay for the monthly service.  While I'm not interested in the mundane day-to-day conversations she has with her friends, it has recently come to my attention that some inappropriate information has been shared via texting.  I'd prefer not to take the phone away from her, as it does provide a useful function (ie, my ability to get ahold of her when she is out with her friends), However, I am finding that part of my job as her parent is to monitor what is being sent and.  I also have reason to believe she is deleting text messages she does not want us to see.  I look forward to any recommendations that can be provided.  Thanks!

[smitty23521 · Accepted solution]

Yes, this can be done by the Integrated Messaging feature. However, you will not be able to see the iMessages because it goes through the network as data. Also, you would need to register her number with My Verizon which will send her a text message containing the temporary password which is needed

[jroeder]

Or you could just block texting on his/her phone.

https://insidersguide.vzw.com/home-and-family/how-to-block-text-messages-and-calls-verizon-safeguard...

[rcschnoor]

Unfortunately, with a smartphone this would not be very helpful. For instance, iMessage normally uses data instead of texting for messages to other Apple devices. There are several other apps which ALSO bypass SMS/MMS capabilities alltogether. Blocking texting on a smartphone WILL NOT keep a user from being able to text, it would simply push them into a messaging type which bypasses the SMS/MMS infrastructure and works solely via data.

[jroeder]

Good to know, thank you.